Inverness,
Inverness is the largest city in the Scottish Highlands, situated at the northern end of the Great Glen and on the banks of the River Ness. The city is known for its picturesque landscape, with the iconic Inverness Castle overlooking the river and surrounding hills. Inverness is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a mix of historic sites, outdoor activities, and traditional Scottish hospitality.
With its thriving cultural scene, vibrant nightlife, and easy access to the stunning Scottish countryside, Inverness has something to offer for everyone.
Places to visit
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Historic Inverness
morning:Start your day at the Inverness Castle, soaking in panoramic views of the city and the River Ness. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside walk to the Ness Islands, a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. For breakfast, try the delightful pastries and coffee at the Little Bird Coffee House.
afternoon:Visit the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to delve into the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Then, head to the Victorian Market, a charming shopping arcade where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. Grab a quick bite at the Sunshine Kitchen for a delicious lunch.
evening:For a lively evening, explore the vibrant pubs along Church Street, such as Hootananny and Johnny Foxes, where you can enjoy live music and a friendly atmosphere.
Highland Adventure & Loch Ness
morning:Embark on a thrilling adventure with a guided tour to the mysterious Loch Ness. Explore the surrounding natural beauty and keep an eye out for the legendary creature. Refuel with a hearty breakfast at the Foyers Lodge, offering stunning views of the loch.
afternoon:Continue your Loch Ness exploration with a visit to the Urquhart Castle, steeped in history and overlooking the loch. Take a boat trip on the loch for a different perspective of the iconic landmark. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the Loch Ness Clansman Hotel, serving local delicacies.
evening:Cap off the day with a relaxing evening cruise on Loch Ness, witnessing the sunset over the water and savoring the tranquil ambiance.
Whisky Trail & Culinary Delights
morning:Embark on an immersive whisky tour at the Glen Ord Distillery, where you can learn about the traditional whisky-making process and sample some of Scotland's finest single malts. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the distillery's café with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
afternoon:Head to the historic Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre to discover the compelling stories of the Jacobite uprising. Followed by a visit to the Culloden House Hotel for a gourmet lunch experience featuring seasonal ingredients and refined Scottish cuisine.
evening:For an evening of culinary delights, dine at the Rocpool Restaurant, known for its exquisite contemporary Scottish dishes and elegant ambiance.
Riverside Relaxation & Local Markets
morning:Start your day with a tranquil walk along the River Ness, taking in the serene natural beauty and the charming architecture of Inverness. Don't miss the chance to visit the popular Leakey's Bookshop, housed in a converted church, and explore its extensive collection of books. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at the River House Restaurant with serene views of the river.
afternoon:Discover the vibrant Farmer's Market at the Eastgate Shopping Centre, where you can sample local produce, artisanal goods, and delectable treats. Take a leisurely afternoon tea break at the Eden Court Café, offering a selection of homemade pastries and sandwiches.
evening:Wrap up the day with a visit to the vibrant Mercure Inverness Hotel to enjoy a relaxing evening in its cozy bar, sampling a variety of local craft beers and spirits.
Inverness Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Haggis
A Scottish delicacy made from minced sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, combined with onion, oatmeal, suet, and spices. It's a must-try for those seeking an authentic taste of Scotland. Visitors can savor this dish at traditional Scottish restaurants such as The Mustard Seed or The Kitchen Brasserie.
Must-Try!
Cullen Skink
A creamy Scottish soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. This hearty and flavorsome dish can be savored at The Kitchen Brasserie, where it's considered a house specialty.
Cranachan
A classic Scottish dessert featuring raspberries, whipped cream, toasted oatmeal, and a dash of whisky. The Mustard Seed is known for serving a delectable version of this indulgent treat.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Inverness Farmers Market
Located in the city center, the market showcases a vibrant array of locally sourced fruits, vegetables, meats, and artisanal products. Visitors can relish freshly prepared street food offerings such as gourmet burgers, freshly baked pastries, and more.
Things to do in Inverness
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Inverness
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!